Gerontology

Quantum mechanics

Function (biology)

Cell biology

Philosophy

Neuroscience

Biology

Cognition

Computer science

Virtual reality

Executive functions

Physics

Rehabilitation

Movement (music)

Simulation

Aesthetics

Psychology

Jump

Medicine

Physical medicine and rehabilitation

Retirement community

Human–computer interaction

Innovation in Aging

We adapted and optimized an immersive simulated reality game developed for rehabilitation of upper extremity function after stroke for complex, cognitive-motor training in a community setting for older adults to promote executive functions and independent physical function. Using a Microsoft Kinect system, participants controlled the movement of a dolphin displayed on large screen as a 3-dimensional oceanic environment by performing a complex combination of skilled arm movements to achieve varying levels of cognitive challenge (catch fish, jump and flip). Participants played the game, entitled, Stimulation With Intricate Movements (SWIM), 90–120 min./week for 6 weeks relative to an active control group who exercised with a hand bike over an equivalent exposure. Adults found the SWIM game to be aerobic given the continuous and sweeping arm movements required. We will summarize the short-term feasibility and results on computerized measures of executive function, processing speed, and gait speed across conditions.

PILOTING A VIRTUAL REALITY APPLICATION TO PROMOTE EXECUTIVE FUNCTION AND COMMUNITY MOBILITY IN AGING ADULTS